Unexpected poetry

Today I received the gift of unexpected poetry, written and read by my colleague Patience. It was during our last 1:1 meeting, marking the conclusion of our collaboration in one organization — and the beginning of what I trust will be many more opportunities to make great work together. It was so touching, kind, poignant, funny, and joyous. And reassuring! The kids are all right. What a gift! 🙏💞

I’m so much better at writing than organically free-styling I also know your love for poetry, so here I am reciting… I’ll express to you my gratitude, the way I do best To you Josh, whose impact no one can detest Quite fitting for a relationship, filled with puns all the time The flow comes better, if I include a little rhyme… From the first time that we met, you saw my potential, And now, two years later, the growth has been exponential How lucky I feel, for our chats every week About travel, food, the world About processes, growth and design technique

Your impact, and teachings, I will continue to apply From advocating for boundaries, research, and always asking for the ‘why’ You sparked a culture that before never existed Curious coworkers, and a fun, genuine attitude that always persisted I can’t express enough, my gratitude to get to always reflect on power dynamics, gender roles, and other things which you feverishly protect I will try to instill in myself, your unwavering enthusiasm to improve Broken systems, processes, culture — The concepts that actually make things move A leader’s role is to do just as you’ve done for me To empower, to advocate, and to teach; To be a safe space where expression is truly free

Yes your impact has been huge, on the company as a whole But on me personally, it is invaluable, your role… I will miss so many things, even messaging in Slack And especially knowing that someone always has my back I quite literally wouldn’t be here without you and the things I learned are numerous, many more than these few

Thank you for making me feel comfortable from day one Thank you for empowering me, and always encouraging a job well done For engraining in me the importance of context Of standing up for myself, research, and not fearing the complex Your eye for copy and design, I appreciate so much But your heart for leading and organizing people, this is your signature touch

Such different background and age, Nonetheless a bond, that I’m so glad I got to engage You will me missed so much by me, by everyone But I know that your time here, and our relationship was a victory well won So stay your self, and the right people will see The value, community, and joy, the that your presence frees.

—Patience Dorman